Here is the first of the series, addressed to Aunt Stella. It is on a fold-over sheet, with a nicely embossed emblem on the upper left. The emblem is a representation of the US Capitol dome. the word "Congress" appears in a half-circle above it, and underneath is a monogram of the letters P, P, and P. Could this be the maker of the paper? Most likely it is! Some clarification in brackets. What a wonderful glimpse into the lives of real people these letters give! +++++++++++++++++++++ St. Anne Ills. Nov. 27, 1880 Dear Daughter [in-law] We have had the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 18th inst., as well as that of Charles, and it is indeed very gratifying to us to hear that you are happy and content in your new home, notwithstanding the ruff weather you experienced on your arrival at Crookston. What must have been your feelings: to find yourself almost suddenly conveyed from the City of Chicago and the charms of your beautiful home to the wilds of the far west. [re-phrased for clarity] The interest you take in your store will no doubt help you to use your time agreeably, also being a constant companion to your husband. It is most gratifying to hear that you are doing a fair business in the store; it will increase, I have no doubt, as the country will be settled; next year will see a large imigration toward your part of the country than has ever been, and as you will say, after a few years you will be able to retire to Chicago to spend the remainder of your lifes with relatives and friends. My son Rudolphe has visited us on Thaksgiving day , Albert [another son] has been here a few days previous. He has just started on his first run to sell goods in the Country. Nelson [mystery man] and Rudolphe are very likely going to visit you on or about Christmas. They wanted me to join them but it is impossible. My health is too bad I could not endure the trip, and travel in the winter. I am much better but will not be able to leave the house for all winter. Clara [daughter] has Canada on the brain and as Mr. Parent[son-in-law] speaks of coming to Chicago soon I would not be surprised if she [Clara] would go [back to Canada] with him and be some time with her sister Mrs. Parent [[Aunt Artemise, a daughter who married George Parent]. Mrs. Chiniquy and myself are very thankfull of your kind invitation of us accompanying you back home next spring. I assure you it will be with the greatest pleasure we will accept, provided our circumstances, health and work, agree. I would like it most particularly for my poor wife who has had so much trouble and fatigue during my long sickness. It would give her the rest she is so much in need of. We send you and Charles our best wishes. Your very affectionate father, A. Chiniquy